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Food Capital
"Kuidaore" culture
Nightlife
Japan's best
Shopping
Endless options
2.5 hours
From Tokyo
Osaka is Japan's culinary capital, where the local greeting isn't "How are you?" but "Have you eaten?" The concept of "kuidaore" (eat until you drop) defines this city. Beyond the incredible food, Osaka offers a more relaxed, humorous atmosphere than Tokyo, with friendly locals known for their distinctive dialect and comedy culture.
Neighborhoods
Dotonbori
道頓堀
The iconic heart of Osaka. Neon lights, giant mechanical crabs, and endless food stalls along the canal.
Highlights:
Glico Running Man signKani Doraku crab signStreet food galore
Vibe: Bustling, photogenic, tourist-friendly
Shinsekai
新世界
Retro entertainment district with Tsutenkaku Tower. Famous for kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Highlights:
Tsutenkaku TowerKushikatsu restaurantsSpa World
Vibe: Nostalgic, working-class, authentic
Umeda
梅田
Northern hub with skyscrapers, department stores, and the stunning Sky Building observatory.
Highlights:
Umeda Sky BuildingGrand Front OsakaHEP Five Ferris wheel
Vibe: Modern, upscale, business district
Namba
難波
Shopping and entertainment paradise. Home to Namba Parks and the famous Shinsaibashi shopping street.
Highlights:
Namba ParksShinsaibashi-sujiAmerikamura
Vibe: Shopping, youth culture, lively
What to Eat
Takoyaki
Ball-shaped octopus snacks, Osaka's most famous street food
WhereDotonbori, any street vendor
Price¥400-600 for 6-8 pieces
Okonomiyaki
Savory pancake with your choice of ingredients, grilled at your table
WhereMizuno in Dotonbori is legendary
Price¥800-1,500
Kushikatsu
Deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables. Never double-dip the sauce!
WhereShinsekai area
Price¥100-300 per skewer
Kitsune Udon
Udon noodles with sweet fried tofu, an Osaka specialty
WhereThroughout the city
Price¥500-800
Day Trips from Osaka
Osaka's central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Kansai region.
Kyoto
Ancient temples and geisha districts
Nara
Friendly deer and giant Buddha
Kobe
Kobe beef and harbor views
Himeji
Japan's most magnificent castle
Universal Studios Japan
Theme park with Nintendo World
Osaka Castle
Symbol of the city, beautiful in any season
Originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Osaka Castle is surrounded by moats and parkland. The main tower offers panoramic city views and a museum about Osaka's history. The castle grounds are particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Osaka Tips
Money-Saving Tips
- Osaka Amazing Pass includes attractions + transport
- Street food is better and cheaper than restaurants
- Stay in Namba for best location/value balance
Local Culture
- Osakans stand on the right on escalators (opposite of Tokyo)
- Comedy is huge - catch a show at Namba Grand Kagetsu
- Locals are friendlier and more direct than in other cities